By William C. Singleton III
Journal contributor
A retail developer has withdrawn plans to build a neighborhood Walmart store in Bluff Park following protests from residents.
MAP Development LLC said it is no longer pursuing a neighborhood Walmart.
“MAP Development LLC is electing to withdraw its pending request for rezoning and conditional use approval for the properties at 2120 Tyler Road and 821 Alford Avenue at this time,” a statement from the developer reads. “The area was identified as a potential development site as it offered an opportunity to return a full-service grocery store to a part of the city that many people felt was currently underserved. While some of the feedback received was positive, the majority voiced concern over the development of this corner. Should the development climate change or if other development opportunities arise in the future, we would gladly revisit the feasibility of development in Bluff Park.”
Bluff Park residents were up in arms when they heard of MAP’s proposal. Residents attended a Hoover Planning and Zoning Board work session to voice their opposition to the proposed development and the rezoning of property from agricultural to community business district.
MAP had planned to build a 43,160 square-foot grocery store and gasoline station on the property. Residents said the store would produce greater traffic and would disrupt their small-town community feel.
Bluff Park resident Doylene Marron said she’s glad the developer withdrew his request.
“I’m very happy because it was not something we needed in this neighborhood,” she said. “We already have a grocery store, we have two pharmacies and we have two gas stations within two blocks from that property. So why would we need another grocery store, pharmacy and a gas station?”
Mayor Gary Ivey said he supports the decision.
“MAP Development is a quality developer and has done several projects in the city of Hoover,” Ivey said. “However, we are pleased after much ongoing communication that they have withdrawn this request.”
